High School

When educating family members of a patient at risk for cardiac arrest, the nurse should emphasize their role in which situation?

A. ET intubation
B. Analysis of cardiac rhythm
C. CPR training and preparedness
D. Barrier protection while performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation

Answer :

When educating family members of a patient at risk for cardiac arrest, the nurse should emphasize their role in C. CPR training and preparedness.

By providing CPR training and emphasizing preparedness, family members can play a vital role in emergency situations involving cardiac arrest. It ensures that they are informed about the life-saving skills needed, making them crucial first responders.

  1. Understanding Cardiac Arrest: Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops pumping blood effectively, which can lead to death within minutes if not treated. Rescuers need to know how to act promptly to save a life.

  2. Importance of CPR: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical emergency procedure that helps maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until professional help arrives.

  3. Family Members as First Responders: In many situations, family members are the first to be present when a cardiac arrest occurs. They are in a unique position to initiate CPR quickly, potentially saving the patient's life.

  4. Training and Preparedness: Educating family members on how to perform CPR can empower them and increase the likelihood that they will respond effectively in an emergency.

  5. Current CPR Guidelines: It's important to note that the current guidelines emphasize the importance of chest compressions over rescue breaths for laypersons to minimize delays in circulation.